MANILA, April 12 (PNA) -- Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año on Wednesday confirmed that Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader Abu Rami was one of the six bandits killed in the encounter with government troops in Inabanga town, Bohol.

PTPA Krissia Luchansky

"Yes, Abu Rahmi is among those Abu Sayyaf killed in Bohol operation, six killed among the enemies, our troops recovered another body on the site of encounter," he added.

In the same encounter, three soldiers and a police officer were also killed.

With this development, the AFP chief said the ASG must think twice of challenging government security forces and trying to sow terror, the AFP chief stressed.

"I recognized the heroism of our soldiers, for doing the ultimate sacrifice as fastest as possible, I also acknowledge the help of the citizens who reported to authorities the presence of the armed men," Año added.

The AFP chief also called the ASG leader's death a major blow to the bandit organization.

"It’s a major blow , Abu Rahmi participated in Samal kidnapping and also on the Canadians I can declare that the threat is over successfully after the siege in Barangay Napo, Inabanga, Bohol although we are still pursuing some of the remnants of the groups, our assault them continues to scour the area," Año said.